downfallNoun1. failure that results in a loss of position or reputation (synonym) ruin, ruination (hypernym) failure (hyponym) finish2. the falling to earth of any form of water (rain or snow or hail or sleet or mist) (synonym) precipitation (hypernym) weather, weather condition, atmospheric condition (hyponym) fine spray (part-meronym) ice crystal, snow mist, diamond dust, poudrin, ice needle, frost snow, frost mist3. a sudden decline in strength or number or importance; "the fall of the House of Hapsburg" (synonym) fall (hypernym) weakening (hyponym) anticlimax